For several days, millions of pilgrims flock in the Iraqi city of Karbala. They come to attend the Arbaïn, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which marks the end of the 40 days of mourning following the anniversary of the death of Imam Hussein, grand-son of the Prophet Muhammad.
This gathering has taken this year as a special embossed part of Iraq came under the control of Sunni jihadist Islamic State group, which opposes the Shiites.
"Before the start of ceremonies Arbaïn could hear that the group 'Islamic State' would prevent the Iranians to come," said Jamal, a pilgrim came specifically from Iran. "But we, he added, we decided to mobilize even more than in previous years. The Iraqi Embassy in Iran collapsed under visa applications. Border crossings, there were 100 times more people than in other years. "
An important safety device has been set up to contain the violence. This has prevented an attack mortar shells on Friday. There is at least one death.
The Shiite religious festival ends on Saturday.
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